Step-by-step guide to filing insurance claims and maximizing your settlement
Police (if needed)
911
Bill Layne Insurance
(336) 835-1993
First Priority
Safety First, Photos Second
Download for your glove compartment
First 30 minutes are critical
Before anything else, ensure everyone is safe. Move to safety if possible, call 911 if there are injuries, and secure the scene. Claims can wait - lives cannot.
Check for injuries, move to safety, call emergency services if required
Turn on hazard lights, set up flares if safe to do so, avoid further damage
Required in NC if: Injuries, death, total damage >$4,000, hit & run, impaired driver suspected
Bill Layne Insurance: (336) 835-1993 - We're here to guide you through the process
Get: Name, phone, insurance company, policy number, driver's license, license plate, vehicle info
Photos, videos, witness information - your phone is your best tool
The more you document, the stronger your claim
Document every conversation, email, and interaction related to your claim. Include dates, times, names, and summaries.
How to start the claims process correctly
File your claim as soon as possible. Most policies require "prompt notification" and some have specific deadlines.
Best Option: Personal guidance through the process
(336) 835-1993
Most insurers have online claim filing
Available 24/7
Upload photos directly from the scene
Quick & convenient
Policy Number: Your insurance policy number
Date & Time: When the incident occurred
Location: Exact location of the incident
Description: What happened (stick to facts)
Police Report: Report number if applicable
Your Information: Contact details, driver's license
Other Party: All information collected at scene
Witnesses: Names and contact information
Injuries: Any injuries to any party
Property Damage: Initial damage assessment
As your agent, we advocate for you throughout the claims process. We know how to navigate the system and ensure you get fair treatment.
What to expect and how to prepare
An adjuster is the insurance company's representative who investigates your claim, assesses damage, and determines settlement amounts. They work for the insurance company, not for you.
Within 24-48 hours: Adjuster should contact you to introduce themselves
Initial Interview: They'll ask for your account of what happened
Documentation Request: They'll ask for photos, reports, and other evidence
Inspection Scheduling: They'll want to inspect the damage
Be honest and factual in all communications
Keep detailed records of all conversations
Provide requested documentation promptly
Ask questions if you don't understand something
Follow up in writing after phone conversations
Be present during property inspections
Don't admit fault or speculate about causes
Don't accept the first settlement offer
Don't sign releases without reviewing them
Don't feel pressured to give recorded statements
Don't let them rush you into decisions
Don't dispose of damaged property too quickly
While many adjusters are professional and fair, their job is to save money for their employer. Be cooperative but cautious. When in doubt, contact your agent at Bill Layne Insurance for guidance.
Get every dollar you're entitled to
Keep Everything: Every receipt, email, and document
Get Multiple Estimates: For repairs and replacements
Document Hidden Damage: Things not immediately visible
Track All Expenses: Even small out-of-pocket costs
Read Your Policy: Understand what's covered
Know Your Limits: Maximum payout amounts
Understand Deductibles: What you pay out-of-pocket
Check for Additional Coverage: Endorsements and riders
Your first line of defense and advocacy
Bill Layne Insurance: (336) 835-1993
Works for you, not the insurance company
Usually charges 10-15% of settlement
What to expect and when
Day 1: File claim
Days 1-2: Adjuster contact
Days 3-7: Inspection & estimate
Days 7-14: Settlement offer
Days 14-21: Payment issued
Week 1: Initial investigation
Weeks 2-4: Detailed investigation
Weeks 4-8: Expert evaluations
Weeks 8-12: Negotiations
3+ months: Settlement/resolution
Incomplete documentation
Disputed fault or liability
Hard-to-reach witnesses
Multiple parties involved
Ongoing medical treatment
Special investigations required
Provide complete documentation upfront
Respond promptly to requests
Keep organized records
Maintain regular communication
Use your agent as an advocate
Be cooperative but persistent
Learn from others' expensive errors
Waiting too long can void your claim
Let investigators determine fault
Not taking enough photos or keeping records
Initial offers are often low
Understand what you're signing
Don't throw away damaged items too quickly
See a doctor even for minor injuries
Stick to facts, avoid speculation
Your agent is your advocate
Verify everything and get it in writing
Special considerations for each claim type
Your options and next steps
Not all claim denials are valid. Insurance companies sometimes deny legitimate claims to save money. Understanding the reasons can help you respond appropriately.
Damage not covered by policy
Policy lapsed due to non-payment
Intentional damage or fraud
Occurred before policy effective date
Policy interpretation disputes
Insufficient documentation claims
Pre-existing damage allegations
Maintenance-related exclusions
Understand exactly why your claim was denied
Verify if the denial reason is actually valid
Get professional help interpreting the denial
Address any documentation gaps
Use the insurance company's internal appeal process
When your claim is denied, you need someone who understands insurance law and company tactics. We've successfully helped many clients overturn wrongful denials.
File a complaint for unfair practices
Phone: 855-408-1212 | Website: ncdoi.gov
Consult with an attorney specializing in insurance law
May work on contingency for valid claims
When and how to involve experts
Contact Us Immediately After Any Incident
When to Consider:
Typical fee: 10-15% of settlement
When to Consider:
Many work on contingency for valid claims
Always start with your insurance agent. We can often resolve issues without additional costs. If we can't get you a fair settlement, we'll recommend the right professional for your situation.
Bookmark this guide and remember - Bill Layne Insurance is here to help you through every step of the claims process.
(336) 835-1993
Photos, receipts, conversations
We'll guide you through it
1283 N Bridge St, Elkin NC 28621
Save@BillLayneInsurance.com
www.BillLayneInsurance.com